Mysuru: Mysore Member of Parliament Yaduveer Wadiyar on Tuesday announced that construction of a railway underbridge near Kukkarahalli Lake will commence within the next 15 days, aimed at easing traffic congestion in the area.

The MP made the announcement after inspecting the proposed site along with officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other concerned departments. He assured that environmental concerns would be addressed and that existing green cover in the area would be preserved.

Focus on environmental protection during project

Yaduveer stated that no trees would be axed for the project and that efforts would be made to relocate them instead. As part of ongoing infrastructure works, including a flyover project near Manipal Hospital junction, around 40 trees are planned to be shifted.

He emphasised the importance of balancing development with environmental conservation, particularly in ecologically sensitive zones such as Kukkarahalli Lake, which is a key green space in the city.

Criticism of officialdom and lack of coordination

During his interaction with the media, Yaduveer expressed strong dissatisfaction with the functioning of government officials in the district. He alleged the prevalence of an “officialdom culture,” where elected representatives are not given due importance.

“Officials are not responding to the concerns and requests of public representatives,” he said, adding that such an approach hampers effective governance and delays resolution of public issues.

He pointed out that this situation persists despite Mysuru being the home district of Siddaramaiah, and urged authorities to improve accountability and coordination with elected representatives.

Concerns over traffic signal planning

The MP also raised objections to what he described as unscientific installation of traffic signals across the city. According to him, signals have been placed at very short intervals, leading to traffic congestion and inconvenience for commuters.

He questioned the rationale behind such installations, stating that poorly planned signal placements have resulted in unnecessary delays and confusion among motorists.

“It is unclear who has authorised such installations. The public is facing difficulties due to poorly planned signal placements,” he said.

Issues flagged at Chamundi Hills

Yaduveer further criticised the functioning of authorities at Chamundi Hills, citing complaints from local residents about lack of responsiveness.

Referring to the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority, he said multiple grievances have been raised regarding officials disregarding public opinion and failing to address local concerns.

He noted that the issue is currently under judicial consideration, indicating ongoing legal scrutiny over administrative functioning in the area.

Conclusion

The announcement of the railway underbridge project near Kukkarahalli Lake is expected to provide relief to commuters in Mysuru. However, the concerns raised by the MP regarding administrative inefficiency, traffic management and local governance highlight broader challenges that need urgent attention. Effective coordination between officials and elected representatives, along with scientific urban planning, will be crucial in ensuring sustainable development and improved public services in the city.